Rui Ricardo Diaz is a Brazilian actor best known for portraying President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva from ages 18 to 35 in Fábio Barreto’s biographical film Lula, o Filho do Brasil (2009). His breakout performance earned him national recognition, transforming his career virtually overnight.
Born in Santa Maria do Suaçuí, Minas Gerais, Diaz began acting in São Paulo theater productions at the age of 16. He later earned a degree in theater from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo. Prior to his film debut, he performed for modest audiences and auditioned for minor roles, including a nurse and a factory worker, in the same film that would eventually launch him into the spotlight.
Diaz landed the role of Lula unexpectedly after the original actor, Tay Lopez, withdrew due to medical issues. Diaz was called back for a screen test, during which his passionate delivery of one of Lula’s early union speeches secured him the role. To physically embody the future president, Diaz gained 22 pounds (10 kilograms) and grew a beard, immersing himself in the iconic figure’s early life and struggles.
